Influencer

Popular word these days and for some a "get rich quick" dream. It isn't just the "my 15-minutes and fame anymore," it's how many followers do I have, how many likes, did it go viral.

Influencer: a person with the ability to influence potential buyers of a product or service by promoting or recommending the items on social media.

Fame, wealth, pride... all idols that are unhealthy and pull you away from God. I'd rather be an Influencer in Jesus. Let's talk about the definition of influence:

the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself

Wow! I prefer that, to have my faith have an effect on the character of someone. Some examples of influencers in the Bible:

Esther’s advocacy saved the lives of her people. She used prayer and fasting, relationship building, and even food as her strategy to inspire the king toward compassion. “For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?””

‭‭Esther‬ ‭4:14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Moses was faithful in answering God’s call to speak up for the Hebrews, no matter how long it took. Moses’ strategy was to do as God asked and leave the final result to God. “During the night Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Up! Leave my people, you and the Israelites! Go, worship the Lord as you have requested.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭12:31‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Because of Nehemiah’s advocacy, the walls of Jerusalem are rebuilt, exiles return to a secured city, and the people recommit to God’s law. All this started with Nehemiah’s heart being broken. His strategy was to ask God for an opportunity to help put things right, and God granted his request. Nehemiah’s prayer and request were bold. God blessed that boldness and used Nehemiah as a witness to the surrounding nations. “Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.””

‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭8:10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Paul is strategic. He knows he has authority in the situation, but instead he says, “yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love” (Philemon 9). He extols Philemon to welcome Onesimus as he would welcome Paul himself. Paul appeals to Philemon’s faith to convince him to do the right thing. This is a beautiful example of someone using their influence to speak on behalf of someone else.

Those are just 4 examples! These people want to influence and impact lives; have an effect on character and behavior. May every encounter, every behavior, and every word that comes out of our mouths be filled with light and salt. May your family of believers influence others to see the love and light that is in you Jesus.